Best Shopping Markets & Shopping Malls In Bangkok
Most people know Bangkok as the ultimate party destination or an adventurer’s paradise. However, the first sight of this beautiful Thai city is its infinite malls and markets that invite tourists from around the world to shop their hearts out.
Some Bangkok shopping malls and markets have local boutiques and stores along with high-end international brands and labels while many others have some of the largest movie screens in Asia. It is thus okay to say that Bangkok indeed is a hub for the largest and most unique shopping malls and markets in the world.
You must spend some time strolling in Bangkok’s best shopping markets and malls, and of course, buy some special souvenirs to take back home! So, book your special Bangkok tour packages today and prepare to have an extravagant shopping experience in these shopping malls in Bangkok!
The World-Class Icon Siam Mall
Situated alongside the Chao Phraya River, this high-end mall has more than 7000 stores with high-end and budgeted brands. The mall also houses at least 10 restaurants and a floating market that instantly attracts attention.
Its impressive Thai architecture and a colossal fountain (favourite hanging spot of social media influencers) are, however, enough to pull an influx of crowd, as it does.
Apart from being the top destination for Bangkok shopping, Icon Siam also hosts several Thai events throughout the year. The annual ICONSIAM Festival showcases Thailand’s rich culture through dance, music, traditions, and food. You see, it is not just a shopping mall but a place that fills you with enjoyment and entertainment.
Location: Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San, Bangkok
Timings:10.30 AM to 10 PM (All days)
USP: Open-air rooftop bar offering the city views
The Trendy EmQuartier
If there is one Bangkok shopping mall that has it all, it’s EmQuartier. The modern shopping complex offers an array of luxury labels like Dior and Chanel on the first two floors. You can also explore contemporary favourites like Kate Spade and Banana Republic on the next floors.
If you are wondering, there are at least 400 brands decorating this Bangkok mall, including the spiral-shaped building known as Helix Quartier. This extremely popular space houses several fine-dine restaurants in Thailand and food markets that you won’t find anywhere else.
Most tourists love visiting the EmQuartier Mall to witness the grandeur of the Helix, and you must too! On top of that, it hosts several interesting events throughout the year which may include fashion shows, art exhibitions, and cultural performances.
However, you don’t have to wait for any season to visit EmQuartier to see the flashy lights and listen to the music filling the ambiance – it happens almost every day!
Location: Sukhumvit Road, Watthana
Timings: 10.30 AM to 10 PM (All days)
USP: The Helix Quartier is known for its restaurants
The Airport-Themed Terminal 21 Mall
One of the most unique shopping malls in Bangkok is Airport-Themed Terminal 21 Mall. It is a copy of a 21st-century airport terminal. Each floor exhibits airport equipment and staff, like electronic sign boards, elevators, and air hostesses (receptionists) offering flight-related details.
Each floor is themed after different cities around the world, including San Francisco, Tokyo, London, Paris, and the Caribbean. You can try the fashion and food of your chosen destination while roaming around the different floors.
One of the best malls in Bangkok for shopping and entertainment, Terminal 21 explores a mix of local and international fashion brands. Nike, Jaspal, Uniqlo, H&M, and Adidas to name a few but even tourists with budgets will find a lot of options to shop.
Once you are exhausted from shopping, stop by Dory Seafood Bistro, Baan Ying Cafe, and Ootoya to enjoy some lip-smacking food! The sprawling Bangkok shopping mall also houses an 8-screen multiplex that runs both local and international movies.
Location: Sukhumvit Road, Watthana
Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM (All days)
USP: Virtual world tour, space-age toilets, etc
The Glorious Siam Paragon Mall
One of the biggest malls in Asia, Siam Paragon is also home to the largest aquarium in the continent. It has a 16-screen cineplex with huge screens and over 250 stores.
Siam Paragon is one of the malls in Bangkok where you will find everything, starting from a needle to a wedding dress. While taking a stroll in the mall make sure to stop by the brands such as Jimmy Choo, Prada, Rolex, Louis Vuitton, and Mont Blanc. You surely will come out as a happy customer.
Another attraction includes the Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World which brings you a step closer to marine life. So, make sure to indulge in this relaxing experience after you are done shopping.
Location: Rama I Rd, Pathumwan
Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM
USP: Gourmet market, food court, huge space, etc
The Vibrant Market of Khao San Road
Some call it a hipster haven while others know it as a backpacker’s hub, but strolling through the colourful streets of Khao San Road is indeed an eclectic experience.
If you are on a strict budget and looking for a unique Bangkok shopping market, traverse through the stalls and shops of Khao San. You will find everything from quirky accessories, local street food, books, and clothes, and seek Thai souvenirs to take back home.
The best part of it all is that you won’t have to burn a hole in your pocket to take back some authentic Thai mementos. Besides, the stay at Khao San is not that expensive, as is the food and the bar.
Location: Khao San Road
Timings: All day
USP: Impressively low prices, street food, cost-effective lodges, etc.
The Legendary MBK Centre
The MBK Centre or Mahboonkrong is nestled in the heart of the city making it one of the most visited malls in Bangkok. The seven-story shopping complex has at least 2,000 shops known for selling all kinds of products.
This popular shopping mall has many small boutiques and independent stores. Apart from that, you can also shop for international brands and you have the freedom to bargain.
The first three floors are all about exploring a variety of clothes, perfumes, shoes, and accessories. The fourth floor of the mall is for those who love electronics, they can find here an impressive range of smartphones, tripods, DVD players, and cameras.
The fifth and sixth floors have some amazing furniture, arts, and crafts, you can take them home as souvenirs. There is also a huge food court full of traditional Thai meals, so do not forget to try the same.
Finally, the seventh floor is the fun zone with a multi-screen cinema, karaoke booths, game arcade, bowling alley, and more. Make sure that you take sufficient time to explore the mall entirely and enjoy it fully.
Location: Phayathai Road. Pathumwan
Timings: 10 AM to 9 PM
USP: Affordable gifts and souvenirs
The Iconic CentralWorld Plaza
If you are looking for the perfect Bangkok shopping market, head towards the renowned CentralWorld Plaza. It is the third-largest shopping complex in Asia, known for its extensive selection of brands.
The Iconic CentralWorld Plaza captures over 550,000 square metres of space in the mall and 830,000 square metres as an entire building. Some of the top features of this Bangkok mall include a variety of brand stores, SuperSports, and Central Food Hall.
Most locals like to shop at the Zen Department store, a one-stop shop for cosmetics, jewellery, electronics, and fashion. You may as well take a stroll through the store.
On top of it, the 15-screen movie theatre is one place that you should surely try while visiting the plaza.
If you are in Thailand on New Year’s Eve, make sure to visit the Plaza because witnessing the countdown is completely worth it. It attracts visitors from across Asia allowing you to meet and greet foreigners and make some friends.
Location: Rama I Road, Pathum Wan
Timings: 10.30 AM to 10 PM
USP: Huge area, extravagant events including Christmas and New Year celebrations
The Hipster’s Talad Rot Fai Train Market
The Talad Rot Fai Train Market, also known as the Train Night Market, is a unique Bangkok shopping market with more than 2000 stalls. If you are looking for vintage treasures, retro vibes, and a lively atmosphere, this is the place for you!
The market is divided into three main sections.
The first section focuses on antiques and collectibles. Here, you can discover a wide range of old-world items, including furniture, old movie posters, classic vinyl records, and rare memorabilia.
The second section offers a vast selection of vintage clothing, accessories, and quirky items. The third section is kind of an art zone showcasing contemporary paintings, handmade crafts, and local designer goods. It’s an excellent place to find distinctive souvenirs or unique artwork to take home.
Besides shopping, the market is a fantastic place to indulge in Thai street food and drinks – Jok, Khao ka moo, Pad Thai noodles, and Moo ping to name a few.
Talad Dek Market is thus an ideal place to shop, dine, and soak the nostalgic charm of Bangkok’s night. Make sure to visit this place at least once during your Thailand trip.
Location: Srinakarin, Soi 51
Timings: Friday to Sunday and Wednesday from 4 PM to 1 AM
USP: Antique shops, more than 2000 stalls, etc.
The Weekend’s Chatuchak Market
The famous Chatuchak Weekend Market is the largest and most-visited market in Thailand. You don’t need to guess that this market is always crowded with both locals and tourists spread across its 27 sectors.
Popularly referred to as the JJ Market, this special market restocks new items every Friday which is usually sold out by Sunday. As the name suggests, it is a weekend market and since the products are sold at a cheap rate, there is hardly any stock left by the time it’s closed.
So, what can you purchase there? Everything that you can imagine! From clothes, cosmetics, jewellery, shoes, bags, and souvenirs to groceries and electronics, you will find them all.
You can also book a seat to enjoy some Thai boxing at the Channel 7 Boxing Stadium. If you have children, make sure to take a tour of the Discovery Museum near the market. The tour also provides indoor and outdoor games facilities along with a free water park for children.
With so much going in and around the best Bangkok shopping market, no wonder its business is at an all-time boom!
Location: Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM (Friday to Sunday)
USP: A variety of products available at affordable prices
The Classy Emporium Shopping Centre
If you love to go luxury shopping, head straight towards the Emporium, one of the best malls in Bangkok for those who like expensive items. The upscale shopping centre features prestigious international brands including Gucci, Prada, Chanel, LV, Armani, Calvin Klein, and Diesel.
Apart from fashion brands, you can also explore the ‘Living Gallery,’ which is located on the fourth floor of the Emporium. It offers an alluring collection of kitchenware, home, and decoration items like chandeliers and lamps, each one true to its uniqueness.
Emporium also has a massive collection of books, videos, and other multimedia pieces since it is the first design learning centre in Asia.
Once you are done with shopping, go to the fifth floor of the mall to devour some Thai cuisine at the Emporium’s food court before ending the tour.
Location: Sukhumvit Soi 24, Khlong Toei
Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM (All days)
USP: Luxury brands, unique collection, learning centre, etc.
The Takeaway
Do visit these malls to have the best experience during your Thailand trip. Take some time to do research and select the malls that have all that you are looking for. You can check Thomas Cook’s special Bangkok tour packages and book the one for yourself. Get in touch with us today and plan a dream trip to the place that is not only known for its shopping malls but exotic cuisine, amazing beaches, great architecture, and many archaeological and cultural sites.
